The Virginia Suzuki Institute is one of the oldest sanctioned Suzuki Institutes, and is located in the heart of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. We are privileged to use the dorms and facilities of Emory & Henry College, making VSI one of the few Institutes where the whole family can come together to disconnect from the outside world and focus on human interactions and the bonds that music can reinforce. It is a lovely college setting that lends itself to a safe, supportive Suzuki environment. The campus is located near the Virginia Creeper Trail, historic Abingdon and Mt. Rogers Recreation Area. The Virginia Suzuki Institute is a perfect fit for families with students of multiple ages, levels and instruments. Students can register for a traditional institute program with master classes, group lessons, theory/orchestra and play-ins. Older and more advanced students can register for chamber music and jazz programs that share grounding in Suzuki philosophy and provide additional enrichment in their area of interest. Recreational opportunities including a 9 hole golf course and space for informal play and games. Evening programs for families and students round out the days in the idyllic setting of this small college campus.
​
Pre-Twinkle - Book 2 students of all instruments can participate fully in the traditional Suzuki Institute.
Book 3 and up students of all instruments can participate in the returning Jazz and Suzuki Institute this year. In addition to the full Suzuki Institute, their extra Jazz class will cover improvisational techniques, and they may even have an opportunity to play in a combo.
Book 4 and up string students can elect to participate in the Prelude Program which includes chamber music coached by the Kontras String Quartet.
Book 6 and up string students can be part of the Kontras Young Artist Chamber Music Workshop and focus primarily on Chamber Music.
Adult learners are welcome and encouraged to participate in the regular Suzuki curriculum by registering for the regular institute. Advanced adult students may choose to register for the Adult Chamber Music Workshop to have the full Suzuki institute as well as participation in a chamber music group coached by Kontras String Quartet.
There will also be art, chorus, fiddle, and sports & games electives to choose as additional activities.
​
More than just the families and the Suzuki classes, though- VSI is about the Experience. It is amazing to see the effect on students' focus and mindfulness after spending a week connecting musically with others. Being immersed in such a music oriented environment, joining dozens of other families who all believe that Every Child Can is an incredible boost to the spirit. It is a wonderful experience to be supported by a community of amazing individuals- not just for students, but for parents as well.
